Sheep and Other Livestock at Attadale Estate

Attadale Estate is home to various livestock, including sheep that graze across its expansive landscapes. 

Attadale’s farmland is no longer leased, allowing us to take a more hands-on approach to managing the landscape. At present, both cattle and sheep are grazing across the parks as part of our commitment to sustainable land care.

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The sheep grazing in the field used for the Lochcarron Highland Games are primarily there to help maintain healthy grassland in preparation for the annual event, held every year on the third Saturday in July. These sheep aren’t part of a formal flock, just a mix brought in to keep the field green and well-managed.

Alongside them, a diverse group of cattle graze in rotation across the estate, including Belted Galloway, Welsh and British Shorthorn crosses, Highland cattle, and Luing crosses. Among them are two cherished Highland cows who are permanent residents at Attadale. Much loved by visitors and staff alike, they will never enter the food chain and continue to enjoy a leisurely life growing happily rounder each year.

Visitors are reminded to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which emphasises responsible behaviour around livestock. Key guidelines include:

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• Dog Control: Keep dogs on a short lead (2 metres or shorter) or under close control near sheep, especially during lambing season. Avoid entering fields with lambs; if necessary, choose alternative routes or adjacent land.

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• Avoiding Disturbance: Maintain a safe distance from livestock to prevent causing them stress or harm.

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Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, allowing a dog to worry sheep is an offence. 'Worrying' includes attacking, chasing, or being at large in a field containing sheep. Farmers are legally permitted to protect their livestock, which may include taking necessary action against dogs that pose a threat.

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By following these guidelines, visitors can help ensure the safety and well-being of the estate's livestock while enjoying the natural beauty of Attadale.

Deer Management

Red deer are prevalent throughout the estate, from the highest peaks to the shores of Loch Carron. The summer population includes approximately 650 hinds, 200 calves, and 350 stags. In winter, numbers increase as deer seek the estate's relative shelter. Stalking occurs from September to mid-February, with culling conducted by the estate's professional stalker. This practice focuses on the herd's welfare and habitat impact, prioritising the removal of older or unhealthy animals to maintain a robust population. Attadale collaborates with Deer Management Groups to develop culling guidelines based on regular population counts and habitat assessments.

Forestry

Between 2019 and 2022, Attadale Estate initiated the creation of over 235 hectares of new native woodlands, equating to nearly half a million trees. This effort aims to replace non-native conifer plantations with native species such as Scots pine, birch, hazel, aspen, and willows, enhancing the nationally significant Caledonian pinewoods and ancient semi-natural woodlands. The estate has also joined the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) certification scheme, ensuring forest management practices that preserve natural ecosystems, benefit local communities, and maintain economic viability.

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Through these initiatives, Attadale Estate demonstrates a strong commitment to ecological stewardship and the preservation of Scotland's natural heritage.